Pregnancy Ultrasound- What To Expect

An ultrasound scan is an easy, quick, and effective way to assess internal tissues and organs. It is a safe, non-invasive method for any individual, including pregnant women. In comparison, a CT scan and a gadolinium-enhanced MRI could be risky during pregnancy. A pregnancy ultrasound from a Private Clinic London uses sound waves which are emitted at 2 MHz or higher frequency and reflected back to transducer. With a Private Ultrasound Scan London, the doctor can accurately analyse the condition of the baby.

If you have made an appointment for a Private Ultrasound Scan London, here are things to expect:

It’s Non-Invasive- an ultrasound is a non-invasive, painless examination method. Make sure that it’s easy to remove clothing to expose your belly. You will lie on an examination couch comfortably and on your back. Often, it takes just 20-30 minutes for the doctor to finish the procedure. The doctor will apply a water-based gel on the belly area. The gel won’t stain your clothes or cause skin problems. They will put a handheld device or transducer on your skin. It is important to hold perfectly still, so the doctor can get the best results and the clearest pictures. Images will be captured and can be printed for further diagnosis.

It’s Painless- an ultrasound scan is usually painless. It can feel a bit cold when the doctor applies the gel and you might feel some pressure as the doctor moves the transducers on your skin to get the best images. For best results, you will be asked to have a full bladder for your scan.

The Doctor Will Confirm Pregnancy- the first signs of pregnancy can usually be seen as early as 4 1/2 weeks from your last period and a heartbeat can sometimes be detected as early as 6 weeks, although this is not always possible until around 8 weeks of pregnancy. Early in pregnancy, ultrasounds are used to confirm the fetal heartbeat and location of your pregnancy. Later, ultrasounds screen for fetal growth and placenta location, as well as a baby’s general health and anatomy. 

The Doctor Will Track Foetal Development- during the second and third trimesters, the doctor will use a Private Ultrasound Scan London to check that the baby is growing normally, show the position of the baby and the placenta to help plan the birth, and detect some physical conditions.

Contact Northway Clinic

     To learn more about a pregnancy ultrasound, contact Northway Clinic today and speak to a healthcare professional who can answer any questions you might have.

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